The second round of the competition transformed into a brutal test of strength and resilience. It was no longer just about skill; it was a battle of raw cosmic power. The cold energy emanating from the cauldrons grew so intense it seemed to pierce through flesh and bone, chilling participants to their cores.
Around him, participants unleashed their cosmic energy in torrents, wrapping themselves and their cauldrons in protective fields of flame and spirit energy. Emery, while possessing formidable soul power, struggled against the cold. His weakness lay in his lack of mastery over the Law of Flame, making it an uphill battle to maintain the necessary heat.
Beside him, Livi, the female Baphomet, was visibly struggling. Her swiveling horns flickered faintly with energy, and her once-brilliant flames wavered. "Master," she called out between labored breaths, her exhaustion evident. "I can't hold it anymore... Can I have the pill yet?"
